DAVE Jones has left Hartlepool United by “mutual consent” after they were leapfrogged by Newport County AFC and dropped into the League Two relegation zone on Saturday.

While County were beating play-off hopefuls Accrington Stanley at Rodney Parade, Jones’ men lost 2-0 at home to Barnet to leave them two points adrift in the bottom two with two games remaining.

Pools club president Jeff Stelling issued a message for Jones to leave during a live television broadcast on Saturday night and he has now got his wish.

Assistants Alex Armstrong and Kevin Cooper, a former Exiles midfielder, have also left the club.

A club statement released this morning reads: “Hartlepool United can confirm that Dave Jones has left his position as first team manager by mutual consent.

“Assistant managers Alex Armstrong and Kevin Cooper have also departed The Northern Gas and Power Stadium with immediate effect.

“The club would like to place on record its thanks to Jones, Armstrong and Cooper for their efforts and wish them every success in the future.

“Matthew Bates will now take charge for the final two games of the season, assisted by Billy Paynter, Stuart Parnaby and Ian Gallagher.”

Former Cardiff City boss Jones returned to football to take on the Pools job in January after a three-year hiatus.

But the 60-year-old has seen his side pick up only 13 points from a possible 51.